The vigil in Yucatán: a tradition in decline among young people

The Vigil, a Catholic tradition that involves abstaining from eating red meat on Fridays during Lent, remains deeply rooted in Yucatán. However, it is losing ground among young people.This practice not only reflects the community’s religious devotion but also influences foodways and the local economy, especially in the fishing industry and markets of Mérida.

Despite modernization and generational changes, the Vigil will remain a common practice in Yucatán in 2025. According to data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), 74.3% of the Yucatecan population identifies as Catholic, suggesting widespread observance of religious traditions, including the Vigil.



In addition to abstaining from meat, many Yucatecan families make other sacrifices as a way to demonstrate their devotion and discipline. For example, some people avoid soft drinks and sweets during Lent and increase their attendance at Mass and time spent in prayer.However, the observance of the vigil has declined among young people in Yucatán in recent years.

This tradition has lost relevance among younger generations, who, due to faster-paced lifestyles, choose to consume readily available food, disregarding the restrictions imposed by the vigil. Furthermore, many young people who do not identify with any religion do not feel the need to follow this practice.The Vigil has lost relevance among younger generations, who, due to faster-paced lifestyles, choose to consume readily available food, disregarding the restrictions imposed by that tradition.

Although the observance of the vigil has declined among Yucatecan youth, especially among those who do not identify with a religion or lead fast-paced lifestyles, the Church and local Catholic movements continue to implement efforts to engage youth in religious traditions and keep practices like the vigil alive.Impact on Food CustomsThe vigil has shaped Yucatecan gastronomy, promoting the consumption of fish, seafood, and vegetarian dishes during Lent. Typical seasonal dishes include shrimp tacos, fish broth, ceviche, chile rellenos, and shrimp cakes.

Mérida’s markets experience an increase in demand for certain products during Lent. According to Dafne López Osorio, Deputy Director of Markets for the Mérida City Council, the best-selling products include fish and seafood, especially mojarra, grouper, and sea bass, as well as eggs, beans, and chaya, essential ingredients in the region’s traditional dishes.Papadzules, a delicious Yucatecan dish that becomes a culinary option during Lent during the Vigil.

Influence on the Fishing Industry and Local MarketsThe Lenten season represents a period of high demand for the fishing industry in Yucatán. Mérida markets, such as “Lucas de Gálvez” and “San Benito,” see a significant increase in fish and seafood sales. Felipe Estrella Baas, president of the Union of Tenants and Vendors of these markets, noted that vendors prepare in advance to supply the population with fresh, quality products during this season.

This increase in demand can also influence seafood prices.By Roberto García Hidalgo for The Yucatan Times.TYT NewsroomThe post The vigil in Yucatán: a tradition in decline among young people first appeared on The Yucatan Times.

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